Arsenal have kickstarted talks to extend the contract of central defender Gabriel Magalhaes, recognizing the Brazilian’s pivotal role in their unexpected Premier League title charge this season. Despite having over two years remaining on his current deal signed in October 2022, the Gunners are eager to secure their defensive stalwart’s long-term future.
Initial discussions between Gabriel’s representatives and Arsenal have been described as “positive” by sources close to the negotiations. There is no pressing urgency to finalize an agreement swiftly, with the 25-year-old fully focused on helping Mikel Arteta’s side navigate the final hurdles in their quest for a first Premier League crown in 19 years.
Arsenal’s dream of Champions League glory lived on as they dug deep to overcome a tenacious FC Porto side on a dramatic night at the Emirates. Down a goal from the first leg, the Gunners found their European redemption through the cool heads of Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, who all converted in the nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
When Wendell’s spot-kick cannoned off the post and David Raya denied Galeno, pandemonium erupted.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hit back at Porto head coach Sergio Conceicao’s assessment of the Gunners’ mentality in their recent Champions League clash, labeling the Portuguese tactician’s remarks as “strong words.”
The war of words erupted after Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Porto in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie last month. Galeno’s late strike proved to be the difference on the night, but it was the post-match comments from both managers that garnered even more attention.
